Which design employs scientific methods to test a hypothesis?

Which design employs scientific methods to test a hypothesis?

• A. Case study design
• B. Experimental group design
• C. Hierarchical objective design
• D. Matched pairs design

Answer: (B)

The choice indicating experimental group design is the correct answer because this design is specifically built around employing scientific methods to test hypotheses. In an experimental group design, researchers manipulate one or more independent variables while controlling for external variables to observe changes in a dependent variable. This methodology allows for the establishment of cause-and-effect relationships, which is central to scientific inquiry. This design often involves random assignment of participants to different groups (e.g., treatment and control groups), allowing for the minimization of biases and ensuring that results can be attributed to the experimental manipulation rather than external factors. Through careful control and measurement, the experimental group design provides robust evidence that can support or refute a hypothesis. In contrast, the other designs mentioned do not focus primarily on hypothesis testing in the same manner. For example, case study designs provide in-depth insights into specific cases but lack the systematic control and manipulation of variables required for hypothesis testing. Hierarchical objective designs may prioritize broader strategic goals and objectives rather than scientific experimentation. Matched pairs designs, while useful in certain contexts (especially for controlling variables), still primarily serve to compare two groups rather than actively test a hypothesis in a structured, experimental fashion. Thus, the strength of the experimental group design lies in its structured approach, making it

The choice indicating experimental group design is the correct answer because this design is specifically built around employing scientific methods to test hypotheses. In an experimental group design, researchers manipulate one or more independent variables while controlling for external variables to observe changes in a dependent variable. This methodology allows for the establishment of cause-and-effect relationships, which is central to scientific inquiry.

This design often involves random assignment of participants to different groups (e.g., treatment and control groups), allowing for the minimization of biases and ensuring that results can be attributed to the experimental manipulation rather than external factors. Through careful control and measurement, the experimental group design provides robust evidence that can support or refute a hypothesis.

In contrast, the other designs mentioned do not focus primarily on hypothesis testing in the same manner. For example, case study designs provide in-depth insights into specific cases but lack the systematic control and manipulation of variables required for hypothesis testing. Hierarchical objective designs may prioritize broader strategic goals and objectives rather than scientific experimentation. Matched pairs designs, while useful in certain contexts (especially for controlling variables), still primarily serve to compare two groups rather than actively test a hypothesis in a structured, experimental fashion.

Thus, the strength of the experimental group design lies in its structured approach, making it